The installation includes 39 gourd zither (a traditional Vietnamese string instrument), individually painted and laquered using traiditional Vietnamese laquer technique. The gourd zithers are arranged against white walls, in rows that is reminiscent of rows of graves in a cemetary. 2 metres in fron of the wall are 5 large silk paintings of landscape, done with caligraphy ink. The silk paintings are symbollically funereal shrouds often placed in front of ancestor altars.
The gourd zithers are un-stringed to symbolise the silencing of music. The number 39 is significant in that it relates to the tragic deaths of 39 Vietnamese nationals in a refridgerator lorry in Essex. 39 songs forever silenced while in search for a chance to sing. The 5 silk screens of Vietnamese landscape ofthe area the the deceased are from.
The work is titled "The silence is deafening", exhibiting at Vin Gallery, Saigon from November 2020 - January 2021, takes its name from the book "The silent spring" by Rachel Carson, is a silent homage to the 39, and to all who are seeking refuge and a chance to sing their song.